Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cryptocoryne albida
BeginnerCryptocoryne albida
A Cryptocoryne with narrow lanceolate leaves and gently wavy margins. Both a green form and a 'Brown' form with red-brown, darkly feather-marked leaves are traded. It tolerates low light and combines easily with other plants.
About
Cryptocoryne albida is an aroid of southern Myanmar and Thailand, growing in and beside running water, and a variable member of the C. crispatula group. Narrow leaves identify it: emersed leaves are narrowly lanceolate to linear with slightly wavy margins, and submerged leaves are about 1–3 cm wide and up to 15 cm long. Its spathe limb is relatively short and loosely twisted, dirty white inside with purple dots, whereas C. crispatula has a longer, tightly spiralled limb marked with dots and lines. Green and brown forms are grown; brown plants were once treated as a separate species, C. costata, but both occur mixed in wild populations with intermediates, so costata is now a synonym of albida. The brown form has brownish upper leaf surfaces with dark oblique lines forming a feathered pattern and red-brown petioles; the green form has plain mid-green leaves with whitish-green undersides. Long known as a tough plant, it is sold in Japan by specialist shops, including Tropica's 'Brown'.
Size of the Cryptocoryne albida
The Cryptocoryne albida grows to 5–15 cm tall submerged; leaves 1–3 cm wide and up to 15 cm long.
Temperature & humidity for the Cryptocoryne albida
The ideal temperature for the Cryptocoryne albida is 22〜29℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South-east Asia (southern Myanmar, Thailand)
Lifespan
Perennial; spreads by runners
Size
5–15 cm tall submerged; leaves 1–3 cm wide and up to 15 cm long
Temperature
22〜29℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
Survives very low light, though growth becomes very slow.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional but speeds growth.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–29°C; grows at pH 5–8.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in the substrate; a nutrient-rich substrate suits its strong roots.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate by separating daughter plants from runners.
Cautions
Sudden changes in light or water, or replanting, can trigger 'crypt melt'. If the rhizome survives, new leaves will follow, so leave it in place. Never release plants into the wild.
Cryptocoryne albida FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cryptocoryne albida?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne albida?
The ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne albida is 22〜29℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Cryptocoryne albida get?
The mature size of Cryptocoryne albida is 5–15 cm tall submerged; leaves 1–3 cm wide and up to 15 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Cryptocoryne albida?
Cryptocoryne albida: watering & fertilizer — Grows without CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Cryptocoryne albida?
The price of Cryptocoryne albida varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Cryptocoryne Care Guide | Understanding Why Plants Melt and Exploring Diverse Varieties
Detailed guide to Cryptocoryne aquatic plant care. Learn why plants melt due to environmental changes and how to prevent it, choose the right substrate for root nutrient absorption, and discover the characteristics of many varieties.
Rare Cryptocoryne Types and Care Guide | The Appeal of Rare Species and Cultivation Tips
Explanation of rare Cryptocoryne types and cultivation methods. Introduction of characteristics by origin, water quality requirements, and countermeasures for the leaf-melting phenomenon.
Aquatic Plant Tank Used Soil and Substrate Disposal and Recycling Methods | Correct Disposal Methods and Reuse Tips
Explains the correct disposal methods for used substrate in aquatic plant tanks. Introduces the proper disposal procedures according to local municipal rules and the concept of reuse for short-term usage.
Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies
You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.